High Seas Biodiversity Bill 2026

Stage by Stage

Summaries in reported speech - not a transcript. In date order, both chambers.

1. Wednesday 4 February 2026 · Senate

   First Reading
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2. Wednesday 4 February 2026 · Senate

   Second Reading

   The Senate debated the High Seas Biodiversity Bill 2026, which implements Australia's obligations under the High Seas Biodiversity Treaty. Senator Katy Gallagher moved the second reading, outlining the bill's provisions for marine genetic resources, area-based management tools, and environmental impact assessments. The debate focused on Australia's commitment to protecting high seas biodiversity and meeting international targets. No other members spoke during this session. The further consideration of the second reading was adjourned to the next sitting period.

   Outcome: Further consideration of the second reading was adjourned until the first sitting day of the next parliamentary session.

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3. Monday 23 March 2026 · Senate

   In Committee

   Senator Peter Whish-Wilson moved two sets of amendments to the High Seas Biodiversity Bill 2026 during committee consideration. The first set sought to explicitly reference marine protected areas in the legislation to align with the BBNJ Agreement. The second set aimed to significantly increase civil penalties for corporate contraventions to match levels in the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. Both sets of amendments were agreed to by the Senate, and the bill was reported with amendments.

   Outcome: The amendments were agreed to, and the bill was reported with amendments.

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4. Monday 23 March 2026 · Senate

   Third Reading
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5. Thursday 26 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The House of Representatives debated the High Seas Biodiversity Bill 2026, which implements Australia's obligations under the United Nations high seas biodiversity treaty. The government introduced the legislation to establish regulatory frameworks for marine genetic resources, area-based management tools, and environmental impact assessments beyond national jurisdiction. The opposition supported the bill in principle but criticised the government for delaying ratification despite the treaty entering into force earlier in the year. Government members highlighted Australia's existing marine protection record and the bill's role in achieving global conservation targets.

   Outcome: The bill was debated but the transcript does not state the final vote result.

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6. Monday 30 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The House of Representatives debated the High Seas Biodiversity Bill 2026, which ratifies the United Nations Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction. Speakers from across the political spectrum supported the legislation, citing its role in establishing marine protected areas, regulating marine genetic resources, and requiring environmental impact assessments for activities in international waters. While Independent members raised concerns regarding legislative scrutiny and self-assessment mechanisms, the bill was widely commended as a critical step for Australia's environmental leadership and regional responsibility. The debate concluded with strong bipartisan support for the bill's passage.

   Outcome: The bill was supported by all speakers and passed the House of Representatives.

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7. Tuesday 31 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Reference to Federation Chamber
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8. Tuesday 31 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Second Reading

   The debate concerned the High Seas Biodiversity Bill 2026, which facilitates Australia's ratification of the United Nations agreement on marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. The government and independent members supported the bill as essential for international leadership, ocean health, and aligning domestic law with global standards. The opposition supported the treaty in principle but raised concerns about potential over-regulation of the domestic fishing industry and the need for genuine partnership with regional communities. The bill was passed after the second reading.

   Outcome: The bill was read a second time.

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9. Tuesday 31 March 2026 · House of Representatives

   Third Reading
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